VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1929-1932 Wood- Replacing some versus all?

Hello. My question is: If I find that I have suspected deteriorated wood structural parts in the 29 thru 32 series of Chevy vehicles, should I replace just those pieces-or all of the wood? Is it considered a band aid fix to just replace what is failed? Are old wood and new wood sections compatible attached together? What about using products from the marine industry that claim to change wood rot into sound structure? How about trying to salvage the failed hide glue joints with modern adhesives,dowels or fasteners? I ask because of the issues that some have had dealing with what few wood kit suppliers there are out there. Thanks

If the original wood is in good condition I consider it superior to replacement wood. It was far better quality than modern wood when installed. It fits the sheet metal. I agree that the hide glue has deteriorated but if not subject to too much water and oxidation will hold okay. In most cases I replace all the wood if there is any question but in the '31 Cabriolet we are just about to finish the body wood there are several pieces of original wood that we are not replacing. It is a case by case basis. Experience makes a difference.

Aside from hide glue failing (which is almost certain) there is the issue of hardening of wood over time that actually makes it brittle and less resilient. Carefully chosen replacement wood (grain count, runout etc.) will make sure new wood is as strong as the original when it was new. Remember the manufacturer didn't select wood based on quality but pieced together what they had to save costs. Another issue is mold spores and hidden rot (dry rot included) that can never be removed effectively from old wood. I'm not telling you what to do but I always recommend total replacement.